Rich Keller

Using Property Rights Is A Trick Against Biotech Crops

Some politicians wrap themselves in the flag to justify their positions, and then there is Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack appealing to farmers and ranchers’ belief in “private property rights” to justify limiting biotech crop production.

Rural Americans told democracy requires their involvement

Inspirational speakers who specialize in preaching to the choir of agricultural producers and professionals are a dime a dozen, but one guy I’ve seen a couple times lately, most recently at the annual meeting of the National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants, really gets the crowd fired up.

The Message About GMO Crops From Fairfield, Iowa

What's the connection between the meditation society based in Fairfield, Iowa, and anti-farming falsehoods about growing genetically modified crops?

People’s Gardens Should Not Be USDA Focus

It’s officially farmers’ market and “People’s Gardens” season, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I’m sure all you farmers and ranchers are really proud that the USDA is using limited resources in a budget-challenged time to promote and conduct programs emphasizing urban citizens growing garden vegetables and consumers buying locally grown vegetables and fruits.

GE Crops Good For The Environment

Prior to this week’s Earth Day activities, a new report released by the National Research Council provided analysis of the effects of genetically engineered crops on “farm-level sustainability in terms of environmental, economic and social effects.”

Hemp History Week Is May 17-23

May 17-23 is the first annual “Hemp History Week.” Stop right there and don’t hit the remove us from your e-newsletter mailing list option.

U.S. Farmers Will Not Meet World Food Demand

China’s agricultural output has begun to be outpaced by demand, according to the National Corn Growers Association and the U.S. Grains Council. Such a general statement suggests more than a one-year need for grain but a long-term trend.

Cancer Panel Wants Us To Be Cave Dwellers

If we eliminate all manufactured products in our life, we’ll eliminate human cancer, except for a few genetically induced cancers. Two esteemed doctors are positive of this.

Agriculture Should Make More Inflammatory Statements

Many people don't like journalists to use inflammatory statements in their articles or even their editorials. I on the other hand suggest that using language that people say around the water cooler or during coffee break is appropriate - especially if you want people to "hear" your message.

Lost Cotton Gins & Slaughter Plants Have The Same Result

The rural South has changed and will never be the same again. Instead of being the home of king cotton, the South is becoming more and more of a diversified cropping region.